In Episode 33, “Never Too Late”, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks to Judith Downes, Chair of Bank Australia and Non-Executive Director of Clean TeQ Holdings Ltd, ImpediMed Ltd and The Spinal Research Institute. She is also a member of the Global Alliance for Banking on Values Governing Board Forum. Judith previously held senior executive roles at Australia and New Zealand Banking Group Ltd and Alumina Ltd.
Judith shares with us her unique story from the classroom to the boardroom. Starting as a high school maths teacher, she made the courageous decision to embark on a new journey and, as a thirty-five-year-old, found herself competing with fresh university graduates in the corporate world. Judith’s determination to succeed in a new sector and her rising through the ranks allowed her to play a crucial role in the pioneering of flexible working arrangements for both men and women in the workforce. She provides us with surprising insights about the transition and qualities one must have to be considered for and to be able to contribute to a Board. Judith encourages us to question the prevailing executive remuneration structure and presents her perspective on the meaning of diversity.
In a world of a heightened sense of social responsibility and conscious decision-making, Judith and Greg discuss the concept of clean money and how Bank Australia leads this movement. Judith explains how fintech developments and increasingly competitive rates are turning boutique banks into more attractive alternatives in a new era for banking. Furthermore, she talks about the potential of open banking, the constant threat of cyber-attacks on banks, and why cryptocurrency still has a long way to go.
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